Mountain biking injuries have increased with the rise in popularity of mountain biking as a hobby and professional sport. Riding off road over trails with variable surface conditions and the high speeds achieved during downhill sections can lead to serious injury. Thankfully, many mountain biking injuries are from relatively minor falls and will not need the help of an orthopedic doctor in San Francisco.
Not all mountain biking injuries are traumatic. Overuse injuries can occur due to the repetitive nature of cycling. A bike set up incorrectly for the rider can cause overuse injuries. Listed below are the most common mountain biking injuries.
Skin abrasions basically mean cuts and grazes, or damage to the soft protective tissue in the top layers of skin. These are often sustained when falling off a mountain bike and can vary drastically in severity depending on whether a rider is wearing protective gear.
Also known as shoulder separation and refers to the damage of the AC joint ligament situated at outer side of the collar bone where it is attached to the front of the shoulder blade. Pain may be initially widespread but more localized later on. If you are injured, rest and apply ice, immobilize the shoulder in a sling and see an orthopedic surgeon in San Francisco.
The repetitive nature of cycling means painful knee and lower back injuries are triggered by overuse and prolonged bending. The Iliotibial Band Friction Syndrome (ITBFS) or ‘runner’s knee’ can lead to inflammation around the knee. Back pain, known as Sciatica, can be caused by a herniated disc pressing against the structures in the back. Setting up your mountain bike correctly will help prevent knee and back injuries.
This is caused by pressure on the median nerve in the wrist which provides feeling to your thumb, index and middle fingers. The result is a numb and tingly hand. Symptoms normally go away quickly after resting the hand but they can become chronic, inducing pain to the wrist, hand and occasionally shoulder. If symptoms persist, orthopedic surgery in San Francisco may be necessary to ease pressure on the nerve.
A broken collarbone, or clavicle, is a very common mountain biking injury and is normally caused when the rider falls onto an outstretched hand. If an injury is sustained, pain can be alleviated with a shoulder sling, ice packs and painkillers, but professional medical advice from an orthopedic doctor in San Francisco should be sought.
Have you sustained an injury while mountain biking that might require the attention of an orthopedic doctor? Contact Dr. Jeffrey Halbrecht for a consultation to set your mind at ease and get the appropriate treatment you need to heal as quickly as possible.
